The most famous trekking destination, EBC trek’s main attraction is Mount Everest (8,848m/29,035ft), other above 6000er mountains, Kala Pathhar, unique Sherpa Village, ancient Buddhist monasteries and diverse wilderness of nature.
The stunning Everest Base Camp is favorable to visit in every season throughout the year.
The journey presents spectacular views of mountain landscapes, breathtaking glaciers shimmering in Himalayan rugged terrains, alpine rhododendron forest, and alluring trekking trails.
The EBC trek is a challenging journey yet, promises the most prominent scenery of Himalayan landscapes, rich Sherpa tradition, and unique cultural encounters and also offers a luxurious experience in the heart of the Himalayan region.
There are plenty of things you can be engaged in while embarking on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Here is a comprehensive guide on the top 15 best things to do during your Everest Base Camp trek.
Around the Kathmandu- Encounter the City of Wonders and the Main Gateway to the Himalayas
Ancient Kathmandu is a capital city of Nepal with remarkably unique cultural sites, traditional richness, history, arts, and architecture, and is also a main hub for trekking in the Himalayan region.
Nestled at an altitude of 1,400m (4,600ft) the Kathmandu Valley is home to many historical sites, exploration of cultural significance, adventure tourism, and crucial acclimatization stops before embarking on any major trekking destinations.
Kathmandu is a residence of ancient historical sites to several UNESCO-listed World Heritage Sites.
The intricate Kathmandu Durbar Square-an ancient Newar architecture, dome style Buddhist stupa of Boudanath and the Monkey Temple (Swayambhunath) along with a major Hindu pilgrimage site the pagoda style Pashupatinath Temple.
The valley boasts a rich tapestry of religious and cultural sites, folk music, folklore, extravagant rituals, and worshipping the main clan deity on every occasion.
You can witness sites renowned for arts and traditional crafts like thangka paintings, wood carvings, pottery, and handmade jewels.
Local cuisines such as Newari and Nepali styles are served, and numerous festivals such as Dashain, and Tihar along with significant Jatras are celebrated while preserving and promoting its rich cultural heritage.
Kathmandu city is the main gateway for climbers, trekkers, hikers, adventure lovers, and explorers heading to the Himalayas destination.
Most trekking destinations in the Everest region, Annapurna area, Mardi, Langtang, and Manaslu regions begin from Kathmandu.
Numerous major flights to rich destinations such as east for Kanchenjunga Base Camp, mid-west to Rara, Shey Phoksundo Lake or even far Western region to Api Base Camp, Bardia National Park, or Badimalika start from the capital city.
You can find numerous trekking agencies, guides, travel agencies, adventure destinations, trekking gear, and equipment rental shops along with vibrant places to hang out in Thamel and Durbarmarg.
You can inquire, purchase, and customize your package, manage all the essential supplies along with finalizing other trekking arrangements inside Kathmandu city before embarking on any trekking or travel destinations.
Top 15 Best Things to Do in EBC Trek
The 80-Miles (120 km) trail and overall, 12-14 days Everest Base Camp trek starts either from a thrilling adventure airstrip from the Lukla airport or through the exciting roadway route to Pangom, Kharikhola or Paiya.
The EBC is a mind-blowing destination and breathtaking adventure to the foothills of the spectacular Himalayas, majestic trails, and the most beautiful mountain landscapes that offer you a lifetime of memorable experiences.
Here are the top 15 best things you should do to make the most of your journey while embarking on this majestic EBC trek.
Encounter the Thrilling Journey to Lukla
Lukla Airport built in 1964 by Sir Edmund Hillary is located in Solukhumbhu district of Nepal. It is also known as Tenzing-Hillary Airport, one of the most thrilling and dangerous airports in the world.
Nestled at a high altitude of 2,846m (9,337ft) the challenging airport runway is just 527m (1,729ft) in length which is only accessible by small propeller planes and helicopters and ensures you breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
The airstrip journey to Lukla presents you with majestic views of panoramic mountains along with Mount Everest world’s highest mountains, other beautiful Himalayan ranges, and verdant landscapes.
Lukla is the gateway to the Sagarmatha National Park and the most popular starting point of the EBC trek for trekkers.
It offers you a unique settlement of the Sherpa community, diverse markets, local shops, teahouses, and luxurious lodges along with reliable communication and network facilities.
Enroute Via Sagarmatha National Park
Established in 1976 and situated in the Himalayas region of eastern Nepal, the UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site, Sagarmatha National Park’s overall area is 1,148sq km and elevation ranges from 2,845m(9,334ft) to 8,848m(29,029ft).
It is famous for Mount Everest highest peak in the world and other dramatic mountain landscapes.
You will experience diverse flora of alpine forest such as rhododendrons, birch, blue pine, bamboo, firs, hemlock, and Juniper trees along with endangered fauna like majestic Snow Leopard, Himalayan Tahr, Musk Deer, Marten, and Red Panda.
You can spot bird species such as Danphe- the national bird of Nepal, Impeyan pheasant, alpine chough, Himalayan Monal, Snowcock, bearded Vulture, blood pheasant, and so on.
Along with diverse flora and fauna, Sagamatha National Park also presents you with unique Sherpa culture, rivers, glaciers, challenging peaks, passes, thrilling trails, deep valleys, high-altitude wetlands like Gokyo Lakes, and rugged terrain.
Explore Namche Bazaar
Located at an altitude of 3,440m (11,286ft) Namche Bazaar is the “Main Gateway to the Everest”.
The major trekking hub and trading center, Namche Bazaar, the beautiful town in the remote Khumbu region is the first acclimatization stop to recover before embarking into higher altitudes and offers interaction with other visitors, trekkers, and locals.
Witness the bustling hub of Namche Bazaar, significantly famous for its café, bar, vibrant market, shops, bakeries, and unique cultural experiences.
During acclimatization, you can visit the local vibrant market, taste local cuisine, visit cafes, buy handicrafts and souvenirs, visit Namche library, witness the Everest photo gallery, engage with locals, and understand unique culture, legends, and folklore.
Every essential facility and accommodation service is available, the town has preserved its ancient traditions and Sherpa cultures.
Namche Bazaar presents you with a hike to Syangboche at 3,780m (12,402ft) for stunning terrain and mountain views, panoramic sightseeing of nature, and breathtaking views of mountain peaks and landscapes.
Observe Historic Museum
Experience the thrilling journey of local Sherpas, learn about their history, the generational settlement in the rugged terrains, and their mountaineering feats at the Sherpa museum.
The Sherpa Museum offers you with rich history, the legacy of Sherpa in mountaineering, cultural tapestry, sections of unique flora and fauna, insights into Sherpa life, their livelihood, traditional houses, and settlements.
Nestled at Namche Bazaar, the Hillary Museum also presents insight into the history of climbers and trekkers. It helps you to learn about the history, pioneers of mountain expeditions, their major contributions, and success.
The Hillary Museum also focuses on the history of Mount Everest, the unprecedented achievements, and the thrilling journey of Tenzing Norway Sherpa and Sir Edmund Hillary.
Visit Tengboche Monastery
Nestled at an altitude of 3,867m (12,684ft) Tengboche monastery is the largest and most ancient monastery established by Lama Gulu in 1916, in the Khumbu region of Nepal.
A profound immersion of natural beauty, intricate art, and architecture such as murals, statues, and Thangka paintings along with a tapestry of spiritual and cultural significance Tengboche monastery presents a dramatic awareness of being in peace.
It presents you with a grand prayer wheel, ornate and butter lamps that symbolize spiritual existence and a place to perform meditation, Buddhist ceremonies, prayers, rituals, mantras, and chanting.
Scenic views of Mount Everest, Mount Lhotse, and Mount Ama Dablam can be witnessed.
During sunrise and sunset, the sight becomes more unrealistic, offering you absolute tranquility, a sense of rejuvenation, and peace of mind.
Scenic Hike to Everest View Hotel
Nestled at an altitude of 3,880m (12,729ft) in Syangboche, the Everest View Hotel holds the Guinness World record for the highest-placed hotel.
It is located above Namche Bazaar, offering spectacular views of Mount Everest including Lhotse, Nuptse, Cho Oyu, and Ama Dablam, surrounding Himalayan peaks and majestic landscapes.
The luxury Everest View Hotel introduces you to comfortable rooms carved with traditional Tibetan and Sherpa architectural styles.
It presents a variety of international and local cuisine along with the view of Mount Everest.
The Everest View Hotel offers an awe-inspiring spot for witnessing the sunrise and sunset views of the Himalayas painted in shades of pink and orange.
With its prime location and panoramic landscape, you can also capture beautiful videos and photos of the surrounding peaks.
Experience Sherpa Culture
The journey to EBC encounters you with unique Sherpa culture, traditions, and heritages in remote villages like Phortse, Khumjung, and Dingboche along with major accommodation stops.
Immerse yourself in Sherpa culture by engaging with locals, learning about their customs and traditions, their way of living, their history of settlement, and the chance to trek along traditional Sherpa villages.
Enjoy Sherpa Hospitality and Local Cuisine
As you embark on the most beautiful EBC trek, you will learn majority of teahouses and lodges are facilitated by Sherpa families presenting you with a chance to encounter traditional Sherpa hospitality and local cuisine.
Local cuisine such as Dal Bhat Tarkari (steamed rice, lentil soup, and vegetable curry), Sherpa stew, Momos (dumplings), and Thukpa.
Local snacks such as Tibetan chapati, fried noodles, and roasted peanuts are served in this region.
Ascend Everest Base Camp
Nestled at an altitude of 5,364m (17,598ft) reaching the Everest Base Camp is the main feat of the EBC trek.
The challenging trek dramatically ends at the foothills of the world’s highest mountain, Mount Everest.
You can witness the life of the mountaineers from the EBC as it is the starting point for climbing the major mountains and Mount Everest itself.
The EBC presents you with the best mountain views of the world’s highest peaks, a panoramic view of Khumbu Icefall, and the base camp is majestic on its own.
The journey to EBC passes through verdant landscapes, rugged terrains, Unique Sherpa villages, suspension bridges, rivers, monasteries, and stupas. These rest stops and beautiful trails provide you with an experience of a lifetime.
Morning Hike to Kala Patthar
Nestled at an altitude of 5,643m (18,514ft) Kala Patthar means “Black Rock” in English for witnessing golden, orange, and pink Mount Everest along with other snow-capped peaks.
Kala Patthar is famous for the best sunrise stops to witness breathtaking views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Changtse along with a 360°panoramic view of the surrounding mountains.
You need to plan, mentally prepare, physically challenge, and protect yourself from exhausting long hikes, dehydration, and altitude sickness for a successful adventure and unforgettable lifetime experience.
You can see Kala Patthar as a perfect stop to photograph the Khumbu Glacier, Mount Everest, and other majestic mountain views standing together in all their glory.
Capture Breathtaking Scenery and Landscapes
The EBC trek offers some of the most beautiful and photogenic landscapes throughout the world.
During the trek, you will have multiple opportunities to capture every beautiful curve and unparalleled, and stunning scenery of nature.
Whether it is sky-piercing towering peaks, turquoise lakes, glistening glaciers, unique Sherpa villages, or green lush landscapes, the Everest Base Camp trek presents you with a chance to witness breathtaking scenery and landscapes.
Engage in Local and Trekker’s Experience
The locals are undoubtedly rich in customs, traditions, cuisine, and folklore of the Himalayas.
Their life spent on harsh terrain and unpredictable weather conditions have contributed to making Sherpas humble and people with rich hearts.
Engage with the local community and immerse in their history while resting at the essential stops.
Experience the local festivals such as Mani Rimdu, Tihar, or Dashain and you can also enjoy staying at local teahouses.
When staying for lunch or dinner in the common hall enjoy listening to trekkers’ experience, discussing your views about the EBC trek, understanding their perception, and communicating freely with trekkers all over the world.
Practice Sustainable Tourism
Thousands of visitors, climbers, trekkers, hikers, etc. visit Everest Base Camp every year.
Due to the overflow of tourists in peak season, the trekking route often gets littered with unwanted garbage and plastic bags.
You should adopt the “Leave no trash” policy, by not littering any non-biodegradable bags, promoting sustainable policy, and practicing eco-friendly tourism activities while embarking on the EBC trek.
Heli Flight to Lukla
The EBC trek is an overall 12-14 day trekking journey. You can either hike a round trip of 80 miles (120km) from Lukla via Namche Bazaar to EBC and again back to Lukla or fly back with a helicopter.
The heli flight to Lukla from Kala Pathhar offers you an experience of a lifetime. You will be able to witness awe-inspiring mountain landscapes, spectacular views of rugged terrains, and the wilderness of Sagarmatha National Park.
It will be a marvelous experience for trekkers who are deciding to fly back to either Lukla or Kathmandu after reaching Everest Base Camp or Kala Pathhar.
This will also help you escape from all the tiring descent down to Lukla via the same trek route.
Observe Glacial Lakes
Nestled at an altitude of 4,700–5,000 m (15,400–16,400 ft), a trek to glacial oligotrophic Gokyo Lake will ensure you one of the marvelous experiences of a lifetime.
The turquoise water Gokyo Lake is a piece of heaven that is considered sacred by both Buddhists and Hindus.
You would be able to find yourself surrounded by four gigantic mountains- Mount Everest, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, and Makalu standing firm in their glory.
This best dramatic landscape is created by glacier’s crevasses and ice formation over thousands of years. You will be immersed in the beauty and immense power of glacial terrains.
Trek to Khumbu Glacier and Icefall
The glacier, a slow-moving river of ice stretches over 15km (9.3 miles) in length and around 3.2km (2 miles) wide in some areas and is the largest glacier in Nepal.
The EBC trek presents trekkers with paramount experience with unique landscapes and diverse terrains.
Along the trail, you will witness Khumbu icefall comprised of significant ice formations and crevasses. You will trek along the glaciers with spectacular views and close experiences of icy active glaciers.
These glaciers play a crucial role in the formation of Everest Khumbu region Landscapes and frequently remind us of the resilient power and immense beauty of Nature.
Conclusion
The Everest Base Camp trek is the journey through one of the most popular destinations and the most beautiful regions on the earth.
Every major highlight and accommodation stop you walk through is worth spending when embarking on the EBC trek.
Each of the 15 best things listed above offers a diverse experience contributing to a profound experience of natural beauty, unique heritage, appreciation of the mountain landscapes, and deeper expression of the Himalayas and people residing on it.
From the adventure airstrip from Lukla airport to the vibrant local culture in every resting stop like Phakding, Namche Bazaar, Dingboche, Lobuche, Gorak Sherp, and so on, this EBC trek is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure you do not want to miss.